Caution should be exercised when dealing with a fired-up Lindsey Horan.

The U.S. captain demonstrated her exceptional skill, netting a commanding header despite colliding with her Lyon teammate, Danielle van de Donk, on Thursday. This crucial goal secured a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands, preserving the U.S. women's national team's hopes of triumph in Group E.

Through a victory against Portugal and preserving their plus-2 goal differential against the Netherlands, the two-time defending champions stand a chance to claim the top spot. This advantageous position could pave their way to the final without encountering England, Germany, or France in the process.

After conceding a goal in the 17th minute, the Americans seemed deflated, facing a World Cup game deficit for the first time since the 2011 quarterfinals. Their performance appeared disorganized and tentative, devoid of the cohesion they exhibited at the start of the match.

A pivotal moment occurred when van de Donk executed a forceful tackle early in the second half.

Horan went down on the field and stayed there for several minutes. When she finally stood up, her frustration was apparent. Emotions ran high as she and her Lyon teammate engaged in heated exchanges, resulting in some pushing and shoving in the box after the USWNT received a corner kick. The referee tried to mediate, but Horan's anger remained, and she continued to mutter even as Rose Lavelle prepared to take the corner kick.